Egypt, Dubai, Morocco & Arabia 2013 - Travel Club Elite

morocco
With four massive mountain ranges running from
the Mediterranean in the north to the Atlantic and
Sahara Desert in the south, two thousand miles of
fabulous sweeping coastline and an array of
intriguing cities, this is a land of dramatic
contrasts and breathtaking beauty.
Welcoming and unfailingly friendly, the people of
Morocco cultivate an instinctive Berber and Arabic
philosophy of hospitality and politeness to guests,
perfectly complementing their vibrant and colourful
culture and delightfully flavoursome cuisine.
Marrakech, Morocco’s best known city, has a life of
its own. With its frenetic energy, it is a constant
hive of activity through a maze of bustling streets
and lively squares.
The famous Djemma el Fna square in the heart of
Marrakech really comes to life as dusk falls, with
musicians, dancers, acrobats and snake charmers
all adding to the unique atmosphere. Delve into the
labyrinth which forms the souks of the old medina
and barter with the competitive locals for colourful
carpets and fragrant spices, or simply relax in the
welcome shade of the palm trees.
From Marrakech, climb up amongst the peaks of
the mystical Atlas Mountains, or perhaps journey
east into the Sahara or west to the historic port
cities on the wild Atlantic coast; whether it’s the
beaches of Agadir or the alluringly atmospheric
trading port of Essaouira.
general
information
call one of our dedicated morocco
personal travel experts on 01306 744720
flying time h Agadir: 4½ hours, Essaouira: 3½ hours (flight time
quoted is to Marrakech, the nearest international airport),
Marrakech: 3½ hours
time difference h GMT + 0 hours
visa info h Visa not required for UK passport holders
climate h Climate conditions vary, from the balmy Mediterranean
territories of the northern coast to the windy shores of the
Altantic, and from the vast Saharan interior to the dramatic peaks
of the Atlas Mountains. Morocco is generally perhaps best visited
in spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November).
High summer (July-August) can see temperatures up to 40˚C
in Marrakech, whilst overnight winter temperatures can plummet
to equally opposite extremes. On the coast in Agadir and Essaouira
summers are cooled by the winds so beloved by windsurfers.
key events h
April: Marathon de Sables – A gruelling seven day, 151 mile desert
foot race across the Moroccan Sahara from Ouazazate.
20-24 Jul: Marrakech Popular Arts Festival – A five day event
packed with traditional cultural and folk events including Berber
musicians and copious belly dancing.
July: Timitar Festival, Agadir – Lively annual festival of both
traditional and modern Berber music.
09 Jul-07 Aug: Ramadan – The Holy month. During this period
there may be restrictions on alcohol consumption, restaurant
facilities and entertainment.